If you enjoy reading novels by Brandon Sanderson then you might also like the following authors:
Patrick Rothfuss is a fantasy author known for his rich storytelling and beautifully crafted worlds. Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s detailed magic systems and vivid characters often appreciate Rothfuss’s series “The Kingkiller Chronicle.”
The first book, “The Name of the Wind,” introduces Kvothe, a legendary and enigmatic figure whose story unfolds through his own words.
Kvothe describes growing up in a troupe of traveling performers, the tragedy that shapes his youth, and his determined quest to master magic at a prestigious university.
Rothfuss weaves an absorbing tale filled with mystery, music, ambition, and the powerful pursuit of knowledge.
Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s epic fantasy series may find Robert Jordan’s expansive tales equally enjoyable. Jordan is best known for “The Eye of the World,” the first book in his famous “Wheel of Time” series.
The story follows Rand al’Thor and his friends as they leave their peaceful village after a terrifying attack. Pursued by dark forces they hardly understand, they travel through rich landscapes and cities, guided by the mysterious Moiraine, with dangers awaiting at every turn.
Jordan builds a detailed world full of magic, prophecy, and memorable characters that continue throughout an expansive series. Fans of strong world-building and intricate plots will find plenty to appreciate here.
Joe Abercrombie is a British fantasy author known for gritty characters, morally gray conflicts, and vivid storytelling. If you enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s immersive worlds and complex characters, Abercrombie’s “The Blade Itself” might appeal to you.
It kicks off the First Law trilogy, introducing Logen Ninefingers, a conflicted barbarian haunted by his violent past, Inquisitor Glokta, a cynical, tortured former swordsman turned interrogator for the kingdom, and the brash nobleman Jezal dan Luthar.
As a terrible war brews and conspiracies deepen, their paths cross in surprising and dangerous ways. Abercrombie blends sharp wit with brutal realism, crafting flawed heroes you won’t easily forget.
If you enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s detailed worlds and strong character development, Robin Hobb offers a similar depth through her vivid storytelling and intriguing protagonists.
“Assassin’s Apprentice” is the first novel in her “Farseer Trilogy,” which introduces readers to Fitz, a royal bastard who must learn the secret arts of assassination to serve the kingdom.
Fitz struggles with court intrigue, loyalty, and identity against a backdrop of subtle magic and looming threats.
Robin Hobb creates a thoughtful epic fantasy filled with emotional weight, complicated relationships, and a richly imagined realm that fans of Sanderson might appreciate.
Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s engaging worlds and distinct magic systems might appreciate Terry Pratchett. Pratchett crafts fantasy novels full of wit, humor, and intriguing ideas. His book “Guards! Guards!” is part of the beloved “Discworld” series.
In this story, readers follow the trials of Captain Samuel Vimes and his misfit crew of city guards. They face off against a secret society determined to summon a dragon to overthrow the city ruler.
The plot moves quickly, blending clever satire, unique characters, and plenty of action. Fans of intelligent, character-driven fantasy plots will find much to enjoy here.
Neil Gaiman is an author who blends the ordinary with the fantastic, creating worlds full of mythology, magic, and real-life emotions. Readers familiar with Brandon Sanderson’s imaginative fantasy might find Gaiman’s style appealing.
In “Neverwhere,” Gaiman introduces us to Richard Mayhew, a young man whose life drastically shifts when he helps an injured girl on the street. Suddenly, he finds himself in a hidden world beneath the streets of London.
Strange characters, talking rats, forgotten places, and dangerous adventures await Richard, pulled into a challenge that tests his courage and the very limits of reality. The blend of whimsy, darkness, and fascinating characters makes “Neverwhere” worth exploring.
Tad Williams is a fantasy author known for epic storytelling, vivid worlds, and strong characters. Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s style of plotting and world-building often find Tad Williams equally rewarding.
His acclaimed novel, “The Dragonbone Chair,” opens the epic series “Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn.”
The story follows a young kitchen assistant, Simon, who unexpectedly becomes tangled in royal intrigue, ancient prophecies, and supernatural conflicts over the future of the realm Osten Ard. The book is richly detailed, emotionally resonant, and immersive in its depth.
Fans of elaborate fantasy sagas will appreciate how Williams crafts an expansive world similar in scope to Sanderson’s Cosmere.
Books by Brian McClellan offer readers exciting magic systems, intense action, and vivid worlds with a touch similar to Brandon Sanderson’s style. His novel “Promise of Blood” introduces the Powder Mage trilogy.
In this story, field marshal Tamas leads a violent coup against a corrupt aristocracy, only to find his kingdom threatened by war and dark magic. Magic here uniquely centers on gunpowder, as powder mages wield firearms and explosives alongside traditional magical powers.
The narrative moves quickly, filled with plots, betrayal, and military intrigue, set in a reality torn by revolution. Fans of Sanderson’s detailed and imaginative worlds often find Brian McClellan’s storytelling equally satisfying.
Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s detailed world-building and complex characters might also appreciate Anthony Ryan’s novels. Ryan excels at crafting intricate fantasies filled with heroes who face grim realities and inner struggles.
In “Blood Song,” the first book of the “Raven’s Shadow” series, we follow Vaelin Al Sorna, a young boy abandoned by his father to a warrior order filled with harsh discipline and dark secrets. He grows into a skilled fighter burdened by responsibility and prophecy.
His life’s journey leads him into dangerous battles, political intrigue, and discoveries about the mysterious force known as the Blood Song. Ryan blends action, suspense, and memorable characters, creating a vivid story that’s hard to put down.
Scott Lynch is an author who creates vibrant and clever fantasy worlds that fans of Brandon Sanderson will appreciate. His book “The Lies of Locke Lamora” introduces readers to Locke Lamora, a cunning young thief who leads the Gentleman Bastards.
Locke operates in Camorr, a city full of intricate canals, wealthy nobles, and dangerous gangs. He carefully plans audacious heists against the rich elite, but soon finds himself caught in a much deadlier conflict.
With vivid characterization, sharp dialogue, and unpredictable twists, Lynch crafts a world that draws readers in from the very first page.
Peter V. Brett is an author readers of Brandon Sanderson will likely enjoy. His series “The Demon Cycle” begins with “The Warded Man,” a great entry point into Brett’s imaginative world. In this book, fearsome demons rise each night from the ground.
Humanity has survived behind wards—symbols that keep demons away—but their effectiveness is weakening. The novel follows three characters, each shaped by loss and courage, whose paths eventually cross in a world desperate for heroes.
Brett builds characters thoughtfully while creating a thrilling plot. The vivid storytelling makes this a fantasy experience that is engaging and fresh.
Readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s imaginative worlds and detailed magic systems might also appreciate Brent Weeks. Weeks crafts intriguing fantasy landscapes and dynamic storytelling packed with vivid characters.
A great starting point is “The Way of Shadows,” the first book in Weeks’ “Night Angel” trilogy. It follows the story of Azoth, a struggling orphan who becomes the apprentice of Durzo Blint—a legendary assassin with mysterious talents and a dark past.
Azoth transforms himself into Kylar Stern, navigating a complex path of betrayal, friendship, and danger. With ruthless criminal underworlds, shadowy magical powers, and fast-paced action, “The Way of Shadows” draws readers into an intense and unforgettable adventure.
If you enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s immersive worlds and vibrant characters, you’ll appreciate R.A. Salvatore’s fantasy novels. Salvatore is famous for his engaging storytelling and memorable characters.
His book, “Homeland,” introduces readers to Drizzt Do’Urden, a dark elf raised in the ruthless underground city of Menzoberranzan. Drizzt struggles against the traditions and values of his cruel society.
Salvatore vividly portrays the society of dark elves, drawing readers into complex houses, dangerous rivalries, and clever intrigues.
“Homeland” marks the compelling beginning of Drizzt’s journey of self-discovery and honor, setting the stage for an expansive, exciting series quest, full of heroes, monsters, adventure, and friendship.
Books by Steven Erikson are ideal for readers who enjoy Brandon Sanderson’s mastery of world-building and intricate magic systems.
“Gardens of the Moon,” the first novel in Erikson’s epic series “Malazan Book of the Fallen,” introduces readers to the sprawling Malazan Empire, rich with ancient mysteries, magic, and gods who meddle openly in mortal affairs.
The story revolves around a military campaign where soldiers, assassins, and sorcerers collide, each with their own hidden histories and ambitions.
The world’s history is deep, filled with forgotten cities, powerful magical artifacts, and fascinating cultures that hint at bigger stories waiting to unfold.
Characters like the hardened sergeant Whiskeyjack and the mysterious mage Quick Ben bring layers of complexity and intrigue to the story. If you’re drawn to complex plots, deep histories, and morally gray characters, Erikson’s “Gardens of the Moon” is a perfect next read.
Terry Goodkind is an author whose epic fantasy series, “The Sword of Truth,” offers a deep, character-driven narrative that Brandon Sanderson fans might appreciate.
The series begins with “Wizard’s First Rule,” where we meet Richard Cypher, a woodsman whose life dramatically changes after he meets Kahlan Amnell, a mysterious woman pursued by ruthless killers.
Richard discovers a hidden heritage and faces an ancient evil threatening their world.
Through intricate world-building, compelling characters and an intense conflict between justice and tyranny, Goodkind creates a fantasy adventure filled with magic, powerful truths and moral dilemmas.